Cisco unveils new tech for public safety and security

A new suite of security capabilities will be available for cities and states to protect people, property and critical infrastructure, Cisco said in an announcement today. The new technology includes a camera-based video analytics solution, a unified command and control application and the industry’s first plug and play surveillance architecture.

The release is part of Cisco’s Smart+Connected Communities initiative, which is a model that seeks to improve education, security and healthcare while streamlining collaboration among city, state and regional officials with their citizens.

The expanded solution capabilities include:

A new simplified video surveillance management solution for educational institutions.

A unified Command and Control application for city and enterprise operations.

A video analytics solution that runs directly on the new 4500 Series IP HD cameras

And the industry’s first medianet-enabled video surveillance camera that can be automatically configured on the network to simplify and speed deployments across urban and enterprise environments.

According to Leslie Thomas, IT director for Georgetown County, South Carolina, the company’s open-platform approach was, “a key factor in our thinking as we looked to integrate physical security at Georgetown County’s new Judicial Center and Detention Center alongside upgrades to our Cisco Unified Communications Manager, wireless and data security technologies.”

Earlier this year, Cisco announced that Holyoke, Massachusetts as the first US-based Smart+Connected Community. Jim Lavelle, manager of Holyoke Gas & Electric, said the solution will further help the city of Holyoke develop and prosper.

“Working in conjunction with the Holyoke Police Department, HG&E is already engaged in efforts to both decrease crime and improve the quality of life in our City. As both a utility and a service provider to the city, we believe Cisco’s urban security solutions and vision for video will play a key role in helping us achieve the community’s goals,” he said.